TUI Confronts Multi-Million Pound Lawsuit Following Deadly Gastric Illness Outbreak
Tour operator TUI is defending against a substantial group action lawsuit seeking compensation exceeding £5 million. The claim involves approximately 300 British holidaymakers who allege they contracted severe gastric illnesses while staying at the 5-star Riu Palace Santa Maria Hotel in Cape Verde during 2022.
Fatal Consequences and Widespread Allegations
Among the claimants is Michael Pressley, widower of Jane Pressley, a 62-year-old mother-of-two from Gainsborough who died in January 2023, just weeks after falling ill during her holiday. Her tragic case highlights the potentially fatal consequences of the outbreak, with five other tourists also having died after similar illnesses.
Legal documents submitted to the High Court detail disturbing allegations about conditions at the all-inclusive resort. Claimants cite multiple hygiene failures including improperly prepared food and drink, contaminated swimming pool water, unsanitary rooms infested with cockroaches, and stray dogs littering the private beach with excrement.
Legal Proceedings and Representative Cases
The case reached its initial hearing last week, with Master Gidden ordering that proceedings should focus on 30 representative claimants whose outcomes will determine the fate of all 300 involved. A six-week trial has been scheduled for late next year.
Barrister Stephen Cottrell explained that these lead claimants will provide evidence about "what they ate, what they drank and what the swimming pool was like." The sample includes cases with varying complexity, including some with continuing symptoms.
Devastating Personal Impacts
Nicky Morley from Paignton, Devon, serves as the lead claimant after falling ill just one day into her May 2022 holiday. She required hospital treatment in Cape Verde and has suffered ongoing gastric issues, losing over four stone in weight. "My whole life has been affected," she stated, describing anxiety about eating out and socialising due to persistent bowel problems.
Legal representatives note that three claimants have developed chronic fatigue syndrome, some experience respiratory problems, and one suffered a stroke following their illnesses.
Broader Context and Health Warnings
This lawsuit represents the first group action to reach court among numerous cases being investigated by lawyers Irwin Mitchell. The firm reports that more than 1,500 tourists have fallen ill after booking holidays in Cape Verde, with claims covering several hotels across the archipelago.
The UK Health Security Agency recently issued travel warnings for Cape Verde, identifying 118 cases of shigella and 43 of salmonella linked to trips since October 2025. Health authorities advise travellers to consume only freshly prepared, thoroughly cooked food served piping hot, use bottled or boiled water, avoid ice in drinks, and exercise caution with fruits and salads.
Legal and Corporate Responses
Jatinder Paul, international serious injury lawyer at Irwin Mitchell, emphasised the significance of this legal action: "This is the first group action to go before the courts and therefore a major milestone in our clients' quest for answers. The impact of serious gastric illnesses should never be downplayed."
TUI continues to deny liability for the illnesses. The Riu Palace Santa Maria Hotel, located on Sal island with features including a waterpark, six swimming pools, a spa, and multiple restaurants, now faces detailed scrutiny of its hygiene standards during the 2022 outbreak period.
